Russell Brand looking to sing a tune in the Rock of Ages big screen adaptation

Never in a million years would I have imagined that a musical from director Adam Shankman (HAIRSPRAY, THE PACIFIER) would dare spark my interest. But ROCK OF AGES, the big screen adaptation of the stage musical (that began as a book from writer Chris D’Arienzo), has actually done it. How? Its cast. Or more accurately, its potential cast.

According to Deadline, the latest actor interested in showcasing their musical chops is British funny guy Russell Brand (FORGETTING SARAH MARSHALL). The comedian is in talks to play ‘Lonnie’ (previously linked to Seth Rogen) who runs the ’80s rock club The Bourbon. Now, here’s where it actually starts interesting me. ‘Lonnie’ runs The Bourbon alongside owner ‘Dennis’, who according to Deadline, may wind up be played by the incomparable Alec Baldwin. That’s the first I’ve heard of this potential casting. The two evidently get a chance to sing a duet of REO Speedwagon’s Can’t Fight This Feeling. Brand, I’m actually kind of indifferent on. But acting god Alec Baldwin? Singing? That seals it for me.

Gwyneth Paltrow remains linked to the film, though not confirmed. Also not confirmed but certainly also sparking my interest is Tom Cruise, who would play “decadent rock star” ‘Stacee Jax’ and whose big musical number would be a rendition of Bon Jovi’s Wanted Dead or Alive. Seriously, if this casting happens, I will watch the shit outta this.

ROCK OF AGES tells “the tale of small town girl meets aspiring hair rocker boy set against the backdrop of the 80’s. The pair go through the motions of their relationship through many of the hits songs of the decade. The cast will rock through the Sunset Strip to tunes from Warrant, Styx, Poison, Mr. Big, Whitesnake, Journey, and many others.”